Friday, May 10, 2013

I have a tendency to experiment with tatting patterns. I can follow a pattern without changing it, but there are times when I find myself wondering "What if?".
One such time was with "Miss Caroline, the Crinoline Belle", by Martha Ess.
I began the pattern as written, then found myself wondering what it would look like three dimensional. This experiment was my first attempt at tatting something three dimensional.

Done in size 10. Except for the flowers, which were done with sewing thread.

The skirt is from the Miss Caroline pattern, but was slightly altered to make it three dimensional. The bonnet is based on the bonnet from the pattern, while the torso and arms were an experiment.

May I offer you a flower?

Both the doll and handkerchief you see in the background were made for my grandmother's birthday last year. I came across these pictures and thought I would share them with you.

Close up of the handkerchief's edging.

This handkerchief was the first one I added a tatted edging to. The pattern is from the book Tatting Doilies & Edgings, edited by Rita Weiss.
Experimentation is fun, but following the pattern as it is written is fun too. Making your own patterns can be difficult, but can bring a feeling of accomplishment. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone!

About Me

I love words, and writing is a way I express that love. My favorite genre to read and write is fantasy. Before I was introduced to tatting, I had no interest in crafts. But after borrowing a shuttle and proving to my tatting teacher that a lefty could learn to tat, I fell in love with the craft.